Kramer VM-73 User manual

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
Preliminary
USER MANUAL
Model:
VM-73
Multiformat 1:3 Distribution Amplifier

Contents
i
Contents
1Introduction 1
2Getting Started 1
2.1 Quick Start 2
3Overview 3
3.1 About HDMI 3
3.2 Defining EDID 4
4Your VM-73 Multiformat 1:3 Distribution Amplifier 4
5Installing the VM-73 in a Rack 7
6Connecting the VM-73 8
6.1 Reading EDID 10
6.1.1 Reading the EDID from PC OUT 1 10
6.1.2 Reading the EDID from the HDMI outputs 10
7Technical Specifications 11
Figures
Figure 1: VM-73 Multiformat 1:3 Distribution Amplifier 5
Figure 2: Connecting the VM-73 Multiformat 1:3 Distribution Amplifier 9
Tables
Table 1: VM-73 Multiformat 1:3 Distribution Amplifier Functions 6
Table 2: VM-73 Technical Specifications 11

Introduction
1
1
1 Introduction
Welcome to Kramer Electronics! Since 1981, Kramer Electronics has been
providing a world of unique, creative, and affordable solutions to the vast
range of problems that confront the video, audio, presentation, and
broadcasting professional on a daily basis. In recent years, we have
redesigned and upgraded most of our line, making the best even better! Our
1,000-plus different models now appear in 11 groups1
Thank you for purchasing the Kramer VM-73 Multiformat 1:3 Distribution
Amplifier, which is ideal for:
that are clearly
defined by function.
•Video reproduction in studios
•School and university presentations
Each package includes the following items:
•The VM-73 Multiformat 1:3 Distribution Amplifier
•Power cord2
•This user manual
3
2 Getting Started
We recommend that you:
•Unpack the equipment carefully and save the original box and
packaging materials for possible future shipment
•Review the contents of this user manual
•Use Kramer high-performance high-resolution cables4
1 GROUP 1: Distribution Amplifiers; GROUP 2: Switchers and Matrix Switchers; GROUP 3: Control Systems;
GROUP 4: Format/Standards Converters; GROUP 5: Range Extenders and Repeaters; GROUP 6: Specialty AV Products;
GROUP 7: Scan Converters and Scalers; GROUP 8: Cables and Connectors; GROUP 9: Room Connectivity;
GROUP 10: Accessories and Rack Adapters; GROUP 11: Sierra Products
2 We recommend that you use only the power cord supplied with this device
3 Download up-to-date Kramer user manuals from our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com
4 The complete list of Kramer cables is on our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Getting Started
2
2.1 Quick Start
This quick start chart summarizes the basic setup and operation steps.

Overview
3
3
3 Overview
The VM-73 is a high-performance distribution amplifier for HDMI,
computer graphics, component video, s-Video and composite video signals.
The unit takes one input of each video format and distributes each input to
three identical outputs.
Specifically, the VM-73 features:
•Multiformat operation: composite, component, Y/C, XGA and HDMI
•High bandwidth (-3dB) of 430MHz for composite video, 440MHz for
Y/C, 430MHz for component video, 405MHz for XGA and 2.25Gbps
for HDMI
•HDTV compatibility
•HDMI 1.3 and HDCP compatibility
•The ability to pass PC OUT 1’s EDID information to the PC input1
•The option to acquire the EDID information from the highest priority
connected HDMI output
2
•Worldwide power supply 100-240V AC
•A standard 19” rack mount size, rack “ears” included
To achieve the best performance:
•Use only good quality connection cables3
•Avoid interference from neighboring electrical appliances that may
adversely influence signal quality and position your Kramer VM-73
away from moisture, excessive sunlight and dust
to avoid interference,
deterioration in signal quality due to poor matching, and elevated noise
levels (often associated with low quality cables)
3.1 About HDMI
High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is an uncompressed
all-digital4
1 See Section
audio/video interface, widely supported in the entertainment and
home cinema industry. It delivers the highest high-definition image and
sound quality. Note that Kramer Electronics Limited is an HDMI Adopter
and an HDCP Licensee.
6.1
2 OUT 1 being the highest priority output and OUT 3 the lowest (see Section 6.1)
3 Available from Kramer Electronics on our Web site at http://www.kramerelectronics.com
4 Ensuring an all-digital rendering of video without the losses associated with analog interfaces and their unnecessary digital-
to-analog conversions

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your VM-73 Multiformat 1:3 Distribution Amplifier
4
In particular, HDMI1
•Provides a simple :
2interface between any audio/video source, such as a
set-top box, DVD player, or A/V receiver and video monitor, such as a
digital flat LCD / plasma television (DTV), over a single lengthy3
•Supports standard, enhanced, high-definition video, and multi-channel
digital audio
cable
4
•Transmits all ATSC HDTV standards and supports 8-channel digital
audio, with bandwidth to spare to accommodate future enhancements and
requirements
on a single cable
•Benefits consumers by providing superior, uncompressed digital video
quality via a single cable5
•Is backward-compatible with DVI (Digital Visual Interface)
, and user-friendly connector
•Supports two-way communication between the video source (such as a
DVD player) and the digital television, enabling new functionality such
as automatic configuration and one-button play
HDMI has the capacity to support existing high-definition video formats
(720p, 1080i, and 1080p/60), standard definition formats such as NTSC or
PAL, as well as 480p and 576p.
3.2 Defining EDID
The Extended Display Identification Data (EDID6
4 Your VM-73 Multiformat 1:3 Distribution Amplifier
) is a data-structure,
provided by a display, to describe its capabilities to the source. The EDID
enables the VM-73 to “know” what kind of monitor is connected to the
output. The EDID includes the manufacturer’s name, the product type, the
timing data supported by the display, the display size, luminance data and
(for digital displays only) the pixel mapping data.
Figure 1 and Table 1 define the unit.
1 HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI
licensing LLC
2 With video and multi-channel audio combined into a single cable, the cost, complexity, and confusion of multiple cables
currently used in A/V systems is reduced
3 HDMI technology has been designed to use standard copper cable construction at up to 15m
4 HDMI supports multiple audio formats, from standard stereo to multi-channel surround-sound. HDMI has the capacity to
support Dolby 5.1 audio and high-resolution audio formats
5 HDMI provides the quality and functionality of a digital interface while also supporting uncompressed video formats in a
simple, cost-effective manner
6 Defined by a standard published by the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA)

Your VM-73 Multiformat 1:3 Distribution Amplifier
5
Figure 1: VM-73 Multiformat 1:3 Distribution Amplifier

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Your VM-73 Multiformat 1:3 Distribution Amplifier
6
Table 1: VM-73 Multiformat 1:3 Distribution Amplifier Functions
#
Feature
Function
1 POWER LED Illuminates green when receiving power
2 HDMI INPUT Connector Connects to the HDMI source
3 HDMI OUT Connectors Connect to the HDMI acceptors (1 to 3)
4 PC INPUT 15-pin HD Connector Connects to the computer graphics source
5 PC OUT 15-pin HD Connectors Connect to the computer graphic acceptors (1 to 3)
6 COMP. INPUT RCA Connectors Connects to the component video source
7 COMP. OUT RCA Connectors Connect to the component video (Y/Pr/Pb) acceptors (1 to 3)
8 Y/C INPUT s-Video Connector Connects to the Y/C video source
9 Y/C OUT s-Video Connectors Connect to the Y/C acceptors (1 to 3)
10 CV INPUT BNC Connector Connects to the composite video source
11 CV OUT BNC Connectors Connect to the composite video acceptors (1 to 3)
12 POWER IN with Fuse AC connector and fuse enabling power supply to the VM-73
13 POWER Switch Illuminated switch for turning the unit ON and OFF

Installing the VM-73 in a Rack
7
7
5 Installing the VM-73 in a Rack
This section describes how to install the VM-73 in a rack.
Before Installing in a rack How to Rack Mount
Before installing in a rack, be sure that the environment is
within the recommended range: To rack-mount a machine:
1. Attach both ear brackets to the
machine. To do so, remove the
screws from each side of the
machine (3 on each side), and
replace those screws through the
ear brackets.
2. Place the ears of the machine
against the rack rails, and insert the
proper screws (not provided)
through each of the four holes in the
rack ears.
Note that:
•In some models, the front panel
may feature built-in rack ears
•Detachable rack ears can be
removed for desktop use
•Always mount the machine in the
rack before you attach any cables
or connect the machine to the
power
•If you are using a Kramer rack
adapter kit (for a machine that is not
19"), see the Rack Adapters user
manual for installation instructions
(you can download it at:
http://www.kramerelectronics.com)
Operating temperature range +5°to +45°C (41°to 113°F)
Operating humidity range 10 to 90% RHL, non-condensing
Storage temperature range -20°to +70°C (-4°to 158°F)
Storage humidity range 5 to 95% RHL, non-condensing
!
CAUTION!!
When installing on a 19" rack, avoid hazards by taking
care that:
1. It is located within the recommended environmental
conditions, as the operating ambient temperature of a
closed or multi unit rack assembly may exceed the
room ambient temperature.
2. Once rack mounted, enough air will still flow around
the machine.
3. The machine is placed straight in the correct
horizontal position.
4. You do not overload the circuit(s). When connecting
the machine to the supply circuit, overloading the
circuits might have a detrimental effect on overcurrent
protection and supply wiring. Refer to the appropriate
nameplate ratings for information. For example, for
fuse replacement, see the value printed on the
product label.
5. The machine is earthed (grounded) in a reliable way
and is connected only to an electricity socket with
grounding. Pay particular attention to situations where
electricity is supplied indirectly (when the power cord
is not plugged directly into the socket in the wall), for
example, when using an extension cable or a power
strip, and that you use only the power cord that is
supplied with the machine.

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VM-73
8
6 Connecting the VM-73
To connect the VM-73, as shown in the example in Figure 2, do the
following1
1. Connect the HDMI input source (for example, a DVD player) to the
HDMI INPUT connector.
:
2. Connect the three HDMI OUT connectors2
3. Connect a computer graphics input source (for example, a PC graphics
card) to the PC INPUT 15-pin HD connector.
to up to three HDMI
acceptors, (for example, LCD televisions with speakers).
4. Connect the three PC OUT 15-pin HD connectors2to up to three PC
acceptors (for example, VGA displays or projectors).
5. Connect the component input source (for example, a DVD player) to the
COMP. INPUT RCA connectors (Y/Pb/Pr or Y/Cb/Cr).
6. Connect the three COMP. OUT connectors2to up to three component
acceptors (for example, component displays or projectors).
7. Connect the Y/C input source (for example, a DVD player) to the Y/C
INPUT s-Video connector.
8. Connect the three Y/C OUT connectors2to up to three Y/C acceptors
(for example, displays).
9. Connect the composite video input source (for example, a DVD player)
to the CV INPUT BNC connector.
10. Connect the three CV OUT connectors2to up to three CV acceptors,
(for example, video recorders).
11. Connect the power cord to the mains electricity (not shown in Figure 2).
12. Turn ON the POWER.
1 Switch OFF the power on each device before connecting it to your VM-73. After connecting your VM-73, switch on its
power and then switch on the power on each device
2 As required. Not all outputs need to be connected

Connecting the VM-73
9
9
Figure 2: Connecting the VM-73 Multiformat 1:3 Distribution Amplifier

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
Connecting the VM-73
10
6.1 Reading EDID
The VM-73 PC input directly reads the EDID from the PC OUT 1 output
(see Section 6.1.1), and allows the HDMI input to read the EDID of the
HDMI outputs (see Section 6.1.2).
6.1.1 Reading the EDID from PC OUT 1
The EDID information of the output connected to PC OUT 1 goes directly
to the PC input via pins 12 and 15 of the 15-pin HD connectors.
6.1.2 Reading the EDID from the HDMI outputs
The EDID is always acquired from the highest priority output (OUT 1 being
the highest and OUT 3 the lowest1
You can acquire the EDID by disconnecting (for 2 seconds) and then
reconnecting the HDMI input.
).
To read the EDID (from OUT 2, for example), do the following:
1. Connect an acceptor to OUT 2 (OUT 3 can also be connected, but
OUT 1 cannot).
2. Turn ON the POWER.
3. Disconnect the input for 2 seconds and then reconnect it.
The input reads the OUT 2 EDID information2
To acquire the default EDID, disconnect all the HDMI outputs, disconnect
the HDMI input for 2 seconds and then reconnect it.
.
1 For example, if all three outputs are connected, the EDID will be read from OUT 1. If OUT 2 and OUT 3 are connected, the
EDID will be read from OUT 2.
2 If you connect OUT 1, the EDID still remains that of OUT 2.

Technical Specifications
11
11
7 Technical Specifications
The VM-73 technical specifications are shown in Table 2:
Table 2: VM-73 Technical Specifications1
Composite Y/C Component XGA HDMI
INPUTS: 1 composite
on a BNC
connector
1 s-Video
on a 4-pin
connector
1 component
(Y, Pb/Cb, Pr/Cr)
on 3 RCA
connectors
1 XGA on a
15-pin HD
connector
1 HDMI on
an HDMI
connector
OUTPUTS: 3 composite
on BNC
connectors
3 s-Video
on 4-pin
connectors
3 component
(Y, Pb/Cb, Pr/Cr)
on 3 RCA
connectors each
3 XGA on
15-pin HD
connectors
3 HDMI on
HDMI
connectors
OUTPUT LEVEL: 1.8Vpp 1.9Vpp 2.0Vpp 2.0Vpp
BANDWIDTH (-3dB): 430MHz 440MHz 430MHz 405MHz 2.25Gbps
DIFF. GAIN: 0.05% 0.06% 0.05% 0.05%
DIFF. PHASE: 0.05Deg 0.02Deg 0.05Deg 0.03Deg
S/N RATIO @5MHz: 62dB 62dB 74dB 69dB
COUPLING: DC Y-DC, C-AC DC DC
K-FACTOR: <0.05%
CROSSTALK (all hostile): -60dB
POWER SOURCE: 100-240V AC, 100mA
DIMENSIONS 19 " x 7" x 1U W, D, H
WEIGHT: 2kg (4.4lbs)
ACCESSORIES: Power cord, rack “ears”
1 Specifications are subject to change without notice

KRAMER: SIMPLE CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY
12
LIMITED WARRANTY
WHOISPROTECTED?
WHATISCOVEREDANDWHATISNOTCOVERED
WHATWEWILLPAYFORANDWHATWEWILLNOTPAYFOR
HOW YOU CAN GET WARRANTY SERVICE
LIMITATIONOFIMPLIEDWARRANTIES
EXCLUSIONOFDAMAGES
CAUTION!
Kramer Electronics (hereafter ) warrants this product free from defects in material and workmanship under the
followingterms. Kramer
HOWLONGIS THE WARRANTY
Labor and parts are warranted for seven years from the date of the first customer purchase.
Only the first purchase customer may enforce this warranty.
Wewillpaylaborandmaterialexpensesforcovereditems.Wewillnotpayforthefollowing:
The liability ofKramerfor any effectiveproductsis limited to the repairor replacement of the product at our option. Kramer shall
notbeliablefor:
Thiswarrantygivesyouspecificlegalrights,andyoumayalsohaveotherrights,whichvaryfromplacetoplace.
AllproductsreturnedtoKramerforservicemusthavepriorapproval.Thismaybeobtainedfromyourdealer.
Thisequipmenthasbeentestedtodeterminecompliancewiththerequirementsof:
EN-50081: "Electromagneticcompatibility(EMC);
genericemissionstandard.
Residential,commercialandlightindustry"
EN-50082: "Electromagneticcompatibility(EMC)genericimmunitystandard.
Part1:Residential,commercialandlightindustryenvironment".
CFR-47: FCC* Rules and Regulations:
Part 15: “Radio frequency devices
Subpart B Unintentional radiators”
Except as below, this warranty covers all defects in material or workmanship in this product. The following are not covered
bythewarranty:
1. Any product which is not distributed by Kramer, or which is not purchased from an authorized Kramer dealer. If you are
uncertain as to whether a dealer is authorized, please contact Kramer at one of the agents listed in the Web site
www.kramerelectronics.com.
2. Any product, on which the serial number has been defaced, modified or removed, or on which theWARRANTYVOID
TAMPERED sticker has been torn,
3. Damage,deteriorationormalfunctionresultingfrom:
i) Accident,misuse,abuse,neglect,fire, water,lightningorotheractsofnature
ii) Productmodification,orfailuretofollowinstructionssuppliedwiththeproduct
iii) RepairorattemptedrepairbyanyonenotauthorizedbyKramer
iv) Anyshipmentoftheproduct(claimsmustbepresentedtothecarrier)
v) Removalorinstallationoftheproduct
vi) Anyothercause,whichdoesnotrelatetoaproductdefect
vii)Cartons,equipmentenclosures,cablesoraccessoriesusedinconjunctionwiththeproduct
1. Removalorinstallationscharges.
2. Costs of initial technical adjustments (set-up), including adjustment of user controls or programming. These costs are the
responsibilityoftheKramerdealerfromwhomtheproductwaspurchased.
3. Shippingcharges.
1. To obtain service on you product, you must take or ship it prepaid to any authorized Kramer service center.
2. Whenever warranty service is required, the original dated invoice (or a copy) must be presented as proof of warranty
coverage, and should be included in any shipment of the product. Please also include in any mailing a contact name,
company, address, and a description of the problem(s).
3. For the name of the nearest Kramer authorized service center, consult your authorized dealer.
All implied warranties, including warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are limited in duration to
the length of this warranty.
1. Damage tootherpropertycausedbydefectsinthisproduct,damagesbaseduponinconvenience,lossofuseoftheproduct,loss
oftime,commercialloss;or:
2. Anyotherdamages,whether incidental,consequential or otherwise.Some countriesmaynotallowlimitations onhow longan
implied warranty lasts and/or do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above
limitationsandexclusionsmaynotapplytoyou.
Servicing the machines can only be done by an authorized Kramer technician. Any user who makes changes or
modifications to the unit without the expressed approval of the manufacturer will void user authority to operate the
equipment.
UsethesuppliedDCpowersupplytofeedpowertothemachine.
Pleaseuserecommendedinterconnection cablestoconnectthemachine to other components.
IF reattached, removed or otherwise interfered with.
*FCCandCEapprovedusingSTPcable(fortwistedpairproducts)
NOTE:
Part1:

Kramer Electronics, Ltd.
Web site: www.kramerelectronics.com
E-mail: [e-mail]
P/N: 2900-000544 REV 2
For the latest information on our products and a list of Kramer
distributors, visit our Web site: www.kramerelectronics.com
where updates to this user manual may be found.
We welcome your questions, comments and feedback.
Caution
Safety Warning:
Disconnect the unit from the power supply before
opening/servicing.